EUREKA Programme Initiated Prometheus Project

The EUREKA programme, a European initiative aimed at fostering innovation and collaboration in technology, initiated the Prometheus Project to advance the development of autonomous vehicles. This initiative was largely inspired by the pioneering work of Professor Ernst Dickmanns, who had previously demonstrated the feasibility of robotic vehicles. The Prometheus Project received substantial funding, amounting to nearly €800 million, which was allocated to various research and development activities focused on enhancing the capabilities of autonomous driving systems. The project brought together a consortium of automotive manufacturers, research institutions, and technology companies, all working towards a common goal of creating vehicles capable of navigating without human intervention. The impact of the Prometheus Project was significant in the field of automotive technology. It laid the groundwork for future advancements in autonomous driving, influencing both academic research and industry practices. The project not only aimed to improve vehicle safety and efficiency but also sought to address regulatory and societal challenges associated with the deployment of autonomous vehicles. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the Prometheus Project contributed to the establishment of standards and best practices in the development of self-driving technology, ultimately shaping the future of transportation in Europe and beyond.